New toys, fads or useful props that we must have?

OOV
Similar saddle-esque principle to the Gyrotonics ‘Elvis’, looks a lot smaller and definitely cheaper at $130. A short video here at this link to show you how to use. In their words ‘this product works by activating the users core stabilising muscles while also gently extending the spine to stimulate healthy intervertebral disc lubrication. ‘ This one I would like to have.

POWER PLATE
The vibratory experience available in Pilates studios here and there. He, the Irishman on the site, says that research shows a minute on this baby will really reduce the stress hormone levels. I haven’t tried one, so I won’t pass comment, please share your experience readers, we are interested. If someone has one and can show me how, and why, I’d love to play.

UGIFIT
A cross between a small beanbag and a medicine ball. At $189US I will not be buying as it seems to have the same application as a number of other toys, BOSU etc. I’d rather spend my hard earned bucks on a new approach all together, the FreeForm board, which by the way, the more I play the more I like. Love to see some educational sessions available for it, where are we at with this?

http://www.ugifit.com Debra

Hi there,
Thanks for taking notice of Ugi and for being curious enough to write about it. The Ugi ball was not initially created specifically for Pilates but we found it interesting that we received very positive feedback from the Pilates community at the IDEA World Fitness Convention in LA.

The $189 package combines both the Ugi ball as well as a 5-day functional workout program. It includes both a DVD as well as a portable workout guide so that you can do it anywhere. It also is accompanied by a timer that counts your intervals (it is a 30 minute workout comprised of 30 1-minute exercises) and a suggested eating plan. To purchase a ball on its own is $129, unless you are buying 20+ for a studio, in which case the cost comes down. We are currently completing a 30-minute Yoga/Pilates – inspired Strength and Stretch program called UgiFlow which we hope to launch in the early new year.

If you would like to know more about Ugi and our educational workshops, don’t hesitate to contact me directly.

Thanks, Deb

Pilates Scene